Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, enhanced with mayonnaise for creaminess. The chicken is seared to develop a golden crust and then baked to perfection, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Stuffing
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Using a sharp knife, butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing through the side of each breast to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. If necessary, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides and inside the pocket with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix well until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Stuff and Secure: Carefully spoon the broccoli and cheddar mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the open edges to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step will help develop flavor and texture.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared stuffed chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) measured with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Carefully remove toothpicks if used, then serve the stuffed chicken hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.
- Ensure not to overstuff the chicken to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron to move directly from stovetop to oven easily.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps maintain juiciness and flavor.
- Adjust baking time according to the thickness of your chicken breasts.
